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Sports Referee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Canton, MI · On-site

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful ...

City of Lansing

Sports Official

Lansing, MI

$15 - $20/hr

Job Advertisement The City of Lansing Parks & Recreation Department is looking for part-time Sports Officials to umpire, referee, and score keep various recreational programs within the community. If ...

City of Lansing, MI

Sports Official

Lansing, MI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

... referee, and score keep various recreational programs within the community. If you have a passion for sports (youth or adult), this is a great opportunity to learn more about sports and get paid for ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Milford, MI

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Farmington, MI

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment, and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Southgate, MI

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Southgate, MI

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Farmington, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment, and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Milford, MI

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

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All JobsSports Referee JobsSports Referee Jobs in Michigan

Sports Referee information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$18

$51

How much do sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports referee in Michigan is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports referee?

Sports referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during athletic competitions. They make decisions on plays, ensure fair play, and address any violations of the game's regulations. Referees may work in a variety of sports, such as soccer, basketball, or football, and often use signals, whistles, or flags to communicate their decisions. Their role is crucial for ensuring that games are played safely, fairly, and according to the established rules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports referee?

To thrive as a Sports Referee, you need a thorough understanding of game rules, strong decision-making abilities, and, typically, official certification from a recognized sports body. Familiarity with timing devices, scorekeeping systems, and video review technology is often required, depending on the sport. Excellent communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help referees maintain authority and manage interactions with players, coaches, and spectators. These competencies are vital to ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and manage high-pressure situations effectively.

What are some of the main challenges sports referees face during a game, and how can they effectively handle them?

Sports referees often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions under pressure, handling disputes or disagreements from players and coaches, and maintaining impartiality throughout the game. To effectively handle these challenges, referees rely on thorough knowledge of the rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm and assertive in high-stress situations. Continuous training, experience, and feedback from peers or mentors also play a crucial role in helping referees refine their judgment and conflict resolution techniques.

How do you become a sports referee?

To become a sports referee, you typically need to complete relevant training or certification courses offered by sports governing bodies, which cover rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Some positions require passing an exam and gaining experience through officiating youth or amateur games before advancing to higher levels.

How much money do sports referees make?

Sports referees' earnings vary based on the level of competition, sport, and location. For example, high school referees typically earn $20 to $50 per game, while professional referees can make several thousand dollars per game or season, often supplemented by certifications and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Sports Referee jobs in Michigan?

For Sports Referee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sports Referee jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Sports Referee jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Sports Referee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Sports Referee job openings:

Sports Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Referee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,948 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Sports Referee Level 1

ymcadetroit

Southgate, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

FIND A CAREER THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
WITH A JOB AT THE Y!

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA

YMCA Employee Benefits

  • FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Family-friendly Work Environment
  • Employee Assistance Program & Retirement Plan

Position Summary

This position is responsible for officiating games at a basic level, ensuring fair play and safety for all participants. The Sports Referee Level 1 supports the mission of the YMCA by providing a positive and encouraging environment for youth sports activities.

Education/Experience/Training/Certifications

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Basic knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Experience working with children in a supervised setting is preferred.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Arrives at games at least 15 minutes prior to game start time.
  • Demonstrates and enforces basic rules of the game to players and coaches.
  • Maintains a safe and enjoyable game atmosphere.
  • Stops play when necessary and explains violations in a clear and fair manner.
  • Builds rapport with players, coaches, and parents to foster a supportive community environment.
  • Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including safety protocols.
  • Works effectively with varying age groups and manages small to medium-sized groups.
  • Attends required staff meetings, training sessions, and other YMCA program activities.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.

For more opportunities to join our team, please visit the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit's career page (ymcadetroit.org/careers).

Apply